The PM Palem police arrested a youngster and two of his friends on the charge of cheating two persons, including a 24-year-old woman, promising them jobs in the government sector, here on Tuesday.
The accused reportedly collected about Rs. 50 lakh from both the victims.
The accused were identified as N. Nagaraju (25), Gopal, and Ravindra.
According to Inspector Appalaraju, the fourth accused, Manikanta, is absconding.
The Inspector said that Nagaraju of Isukathota was an Intermediate dropout. His parents run a photocopying shop. About four years ago, he met the woman, a resident of Madhurawada, and befriended her.
The woman is pursuing her Chartered Accountancy course.
Nagaraju promised to obtain her a job in some government sector and collected about Rs. 20 lakh in phases. He also promised to marry her and allegedly sexually exploited her over the years, said Mr. Appalaraju.
Some time back, Nagaraju said that he would be able to provide job for two persons in the Railways. On coming to know about the offer, the girl asked her friend M. Srinivas to join them.
Nagaraju and three of his friends made Srinivas cough up about Rs. 30 lakh.
With the amount collected, the four took a house on rent at Adarsh Nagar and bought high-end bikes, car, and gadgets.
Recently, the woman came to know of their intentions. She also came to know that Nagaraju was already married. She then approached the police.
“We have booked cases of rape and cheating against Nagarajru, and cheating case against his friends,” said Mr. Appalaraju.
A manhunt has been launched for the fourth accused.